Chelsea have sacked manager Liam Rosenior after just 106 days in charge, following a run of six defeats in their last seven matches, with the club confirming Calum McFarlane will step in as Interim Head Coach until the end of the season.
Rosenior replaced Enzo Maresca on January 6 and made an impressive start to life at Stamford Bridge, winning six of his opening seven games at the helm.
Following the sixth win of that run against West Ham United on January 31, Chelsea sat fourth in the Premier League table and two points clear of Manchester United in sixth.
Fast-forward less than three months and the Blues lie in seventh position and 10 points adrift of the Red Devils, and they are in danger of missing out on European football next season altogether.
Rosenior's side have also failed to score in all the recent six losses, showing their struggles in the final third.
The loss against United last weekend was a particular blow as it was an opportunity to close the gap on a position that would allow them to qualify for the Champions League, but the performance in the 3-0 defeat to Brighton and Hove Albion on Tuesday proved to be the final straw.
Chelsea Release Club Statement
Todd Boehly
Chelsea confirmed Rosenior's exit on Tuesday evening, posting a club statement.
'Chelsea Football Club has today parted company with Head Coach Liam Rosenior.
On behalf of everyone at Chelsea FC, we would like to place on record our gratitude to Liam and his staff for all their efforts during their time with the Club.
Liam has always conducted himself with the highest integrity and professionalism following his appointment mid-way through the season.
This has not been a decision the Club has taken lightly, however recent results and performances have fallen below the necessary standards with still so much more to play for this season. Everyone at Chelsea FC wishes Liam every success in the future.
Calum McFarlane will take charge of the team as Interim Head Coach until the end of the season with support from existing Club backroom staff, as we strive to achieve European qualification and progress in the FA Cup.
As the Club works to bring stability to the Head Coach position, we will undertake a process of self-reflection to make the right long-term appointment.'
Chelsea Forced to Reconsider Rosenior Position
Liam Rosenior
While Chelsea wanted to back and judge the 41-year-old over years rather than months in the job, the recent run of five straight league losses without no goals ultimately forced them to reconsider their position on Rosenior.
As well as the issues on the pitch in recent weeks, the former Strasbourg coach has had problems to deal with off of it too.
Captain Enzo Fernandez was dropped from the squad for two matches following public comments he made over his future, before he returned to the starting XI against Man United on Sunday.
GMS understands the Argentina international felt the punishment he received from Rosenior and the club was harsh, which was a belief shared by some of his teammates in the Chelsea dressing room.
Those players were left shocked by Enzo Maresca's mid-season exit by mutual consent, and they believe it has derailed their season.
Chelsea's aim following the exit of the Italian was to qualify for the Champions League, but their hopes of doing that are fading after their form in recent weeks.
Senior Chelsea Players Unhappy With Tactics
Chelsea manager Liam Rosenior looks on during the loss to Everton
According to GMS sources, several senior Chelsea players were unhappy with Rosenior's tactics and training sessions, with his overall methods doubted.
Furthermore, his way of attacking his players in post-match interviews was not well received despite the disappointing performances on the pitch.
Chelsea will now seek to bring in a proven coach with experience as their next manager, with an FA Cup semi-final against Leeds United at Wembley on Sunday next on the agenda.